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7 secrets to getting rid of those pesky bags under your eyes

Sleep deprivation is a real struggle.
- photo by Emily Brady

I was in college the first time I noticed puffy, blue bags under my eyes, and I was mortified. I thought baggy eyes were for grandmas; how was I supposed to love this new dating scene with eyes like that?

I had never experienced baggy eyes because I had never been this tired before college meant a whole new level of exhaustion. And unfortunately, it doesnt get much better after college. When you have kids, they determine your sleeping schedule, and theyre seldom kind about it. Life gets crazy and those baggy eyes get worse.

Fortunately, not all hope is lost. You might still be exhausted, but if you feel self-conscious about your puffy eyes, there are remedies! Here are seven secrets to getting rid of those bags:

1. Cucumbers

Youve seen women in the movies put cucumbers over their eyes while theyre at the spa, but do you know why they do that? Cucumbers are chock full of antioxidants, which can help with irritation and swelling - especially if the cucumber is cooled. Simply cut up a couple of slices, lay them over your eyes for about 30 minutes, and youre good to go.

2. Chamomile tea

Chamomile is used to treat several different ailments like chest colds, upset stomachs and skin problems like eczema, psoriasis and diaper rash. And, of course, it can help with swelling. You can drink the tea or skip that step and just lay the tea bags directly over your eyes to see results.

3. Egg whites

Beat an egg white and apply the foam under your eyes with your finger or a brush. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. As it dries, the egg whites will tighten and tone your skin, as well as reduce inflammation.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is rich in amino acids, and is antibacterial and antifungal. It moisturizes the skin and provides relief for tired eyes. It can even help prevent wrinkles.

5. Milk

There are several different types of milk you can use for this one: whole milk, soy milk, almond milk, you name it. Simply coat a cotton ball with some milk and gently dab the skin under your eyes. Once the milk completely dries, rinse it off with warm water and pat dry.

Refrigerate a couple spoons for 10 to 15 minutes and placed the rounded portions over your eyes until the spoons are warm. The cold temperatures will help tighten your skin and cause your blood vessels to shrink. Alternatively, you could use ice cubes wrapped in towels.

7. Salt water

Mix half a teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water, and soak cotton balls in the saline water. Place them over your eyes for a few minutes, then repeat the process for 15 to 20 minutes. The sodium in salt pulls out the excess fluid under your eyes and constricts your blood vessels, shrinking up those pesky bags.

While all of these remedies are incredibly helpful, its important to remember that these are only temporary. Be sure to drink lots of water, reduce your salt intake and get as much sleep as possible for long term help!